TampaVA Successfully Completes Crucial Upgrade
The James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital successfully completed a planned and controlled Network shutdown from 8 p.m. Friday, September 13, to 4 a.m. Saturday, September 14, to upgrade its antiquated IT power supply.
The shutdown, which affected hospital operations, was part of a broader initiative to enhance the facility's infrastructure for better service to Veterans.
To manage the potential disruptions during this crucial upgrade, the TampaVA medical center activated its emergency management Incident Command Center. This proactive measure ensured that hospital operations could continue as smoothly as possible despite the temporary IT outage.
In an era where electronic systems dominate medical operations, TampaVA took a step back in time, reverting to traditional methods of communication. Staff members utilized paper, pen, and direct person-to-person interactions to maintain patient care protocols during the shutdown. This significant shift required weeks of meticulous planning and coordination among hospital staff.
"All hands were on deck, and we ensured that every team member was equipped to communicate efficiently," said Anthony Moorehead, Acting Associate Director and Incident Command Director. "Radios, cell phones, and word-of-mouth communication became essential tools during this operational shift." As one of the leading medical centers for Veterans in the region, the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital remained committed to upholding the high standards expected by the medical professionals and patients it serves, even in the face of technological challenges. The effort demonstrated the facility's dedication to providing seamless care, ensuring that critical medical services remained available throughout the upgrade process.
The successful execution of this IT shutdown highlights the TampaVA's commitment to investing in the future of its infrastructure while maintaining an unwavering focus on the health and well-being of its Veteran patients.